Top FAQs
If you’re a normal person who reads the Bible, chances are you have questions.
If we think you have a question many people have and we feel like we can talk somewhat coherently about it, Pete or Jared will likely address it somewhere publicly: either the blog, on Patreon, or even an episode of The Bible for Normal People. If you want to drop us a question, you’ve got three steps: Search, Submit, & Vote!
Search
- If your question is technical—related to access to courses, Slack, Patreon, merch orders, or you want to pass along a word of affirmation or your credit card number so we can have dinner or a penthouse on you—please email Reed Lively at thebiblefornormalpeople@gmail.com
- If your questions are about the Bible, please know we get a lot of questions and there are a lot of places where we address them. Before submitting your question, try searching the blog (just hit the magnifying glass at the top of any page of the website), YouTube channel, or Patreon feed (if you’re a Patron!) first. By the way, Pete or Jared posts weekly on Patreon so if you tend to have questions, it might behoove you to sign up there.
Submit
- If you pinky swear you’ve checked YouTube, the blog, and Patreon, and we haven’t answered your question or you just got really unlucky and didn’t find what you were looking for, please submit your question below!
- To submit your question, simply fill out the quick form on the right side of your screen in the box called “Ask Your Question.”
- Think big! We’re looking for complex questions that will generate new perspectives, new visions, and new conversations.
Vote
- This is our favorite part. Because we’re good Americans. Not that we won’t look at your question if people haven’t voted for it but we probably won’t look at your question if people haven’t voted for it. If nothing else, believe in yourself and vote for your own question!
- To vote, simply click the “thumbs up” on the questions you like. If you haven’t logged in before, it will ask you for your name and email address to vote.
Fine Print (Move Along, Nothing to See Here)
- All questions are moderated by the Bible for Normal People team. Offensive or badgering sorts of comments will be immediately put out of their misery, though we will be sure to pray for your wretched and twisted souls. We won’t usually do that unless it’s clearly not a genuine question - but we might. Just for fun. So don’t test us.
- Questions used in podcast and blog content may be edited for fit and clarity.
- By submitting your question, you are giving us permission to answer it in a public way on a public platform.
Not what you're looking for?
There are some other great ways to connect with Pete and Jared:
- By far the best way to connect with Pete and Jared is by joining our Patreon community, where you'll get access to weekly rants from us—and even opportunities to hop on video hangouts, book studies, and live courses.
- Comment on a blog post that affected you in some way. We read the comments and try to jump in when we can!
- Subscribe to the Bible for Normal People newsletter to receive regular updates.
- Follow Pete on Facebook and Twitter or Jared on Facebook and Twitter - where we regularly connect with folks.
- Contact Chaffee Management about booking Pete for a speaking engagement or event. If you’re looking for Jared to speak, you’ll need to head here.
- Contact our literary agent Kathryn Helmers to inquire about possible book offers.
- 8Who does Pete believe Jesus was?Does Pete believe in the traditional Christian view that Jesus is the Messiah and Son of God That died for our humanity’s sins and rose from the dead or does he believe something different? Thank you.... Read more...
- 5What are your thoughts on the so-called Gospel of Judas?Could it have been left out of the Bible because it is so misaligned? It is very weird in its mythology.
- 4The serpent symbol & universal reconciliationMy church preaches full preterism. Your recent interview w Andrew Perriman is what I mostly mean by full preterism: basically, that the return of Christ happened already = the destruction of the templ... Read more...
- 3How can we know whether God or some other entity is responsible for what happensYou teach that, just because it's stated in the Bible, doesn't mean it's factually true. Given that, how do we know if the death of a loved one is "God took him", or merely allowed by God but initiate... Read more...
- 3Who are 'we'?I've just been introduced to your marvellous work and sites via 'Picking and Choosing from the Bible' - the premise of which has potential to be transformative. Thank you. But I noticed the sentences:... Read more...
- 3How do I Pastor, while deconstructing and reconstructing my faith? Are there good resources for this? Everything I know is unraveling and I am having trouble sermon writing right now...I'm ordained by a Wesleyan Holiness church. Most of our doctrines are general but still toe the line of Evangelical conservative speak... I've looked and I can't find any advice for active pastors... ... Read more...
- 3Does God have favorites?What’s the difference between favor and favorites in the Bible? With the story of Jacob and Esau it appears that God has a favorite from the beginning. We see this in other stories in the Bible too. ... Read more...
- 2What is the GospelI grew up, and still attend a Baptist Church. I have been handed a very specific idea of what the gospel is, however, I have read the Bible through four times in the last 9 months in different transl... Read more...
- 2Does God lie or deceive?Hi sorry if you did already talk about this, and if you did please let me know. I was going over some verses that were pretty jarring. Like 1 Kings 22 where God says a lying spirit, Ezekiel 14 where G... Read more...
- 2I’m currently reading one of your books and have a question.Was God the Father a helicopter parent to His only begotten Son? Jesus only did the things he saw his Father doing. If Jesus modeled right relationship with the Father, shouldn’t our relationship with... Read more...
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- 2Do you think the megachurch model is in conflict with the Gospel and Biblical ecclesiologyI saw your bullet point to reach out to Kathryn Helmers about a possible book offer. Thanks for that. I have about 35,000 words about the megachurch (my personal experience of 13 years as a pastor at ... Read more...
- 1The Third Heaven?I was reading and article by Richard Carrier about The Life of Adam and Eve and how the Jews and early Christians believe the Third heaven was a place in outer space. Do you know how accurate this is?... Read more...
- 1How do you feel about psycho spiritualists being used by governments to manipulate the public, not always in their best interests, but for that of the establishment moreover to ‘resolve’ malfeasance by any government org (cover up)By psycho spiritualists I mean using spirituality in conjunction with NLP and psychology itself. In one instance you might say it is a subtle form of control over the subjeçt to encourage better patte... Read more...
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- 1Do you believe in the law of first mention?Do you use the law of first mention? Is this law used only in evangelical or Christian circles? Do Jewish scholars use it? They have the remez and darash but they seem rooted more in the story and... Read more...
- 1Josh Harris kisses Christianity goodbyeJosh Harris recent apostasy reminded me that this is the kind of person you normally reach out too. Do you have any comment regarding the reasons why he gave up Christianity?
- 1Ignore the Psalms that point out that the wicked are prosperingDo you think that Right wing Ayn Rand type Christians ignore the Psalms that point out that the wicked are prospering and flip the whole meaning to this: if you’re prospering you must be righteous if ... Read more...
- 1I shared your podacast about purity culture with my daughter, and she had an unusual objection. She said you hadn't once addressed why the Linda's current view was better, which, if the reason was not the gospel and the heart change because of Christand his death and resurrection, then the replacement would be harmful as well. I'm not sure how to even engage with that statement. Can you take a shot?
- 1Can you share about any recent experiences of the Holy Spirit? I have been engaged with mystics recently so it doesn't have to be like that, but those small nudges you might get daily.I am super thankful that you came to Indianapolis last summer to speak to us. I still hope the Yankees lose to my Cleveland team (sort of don't like their team name).
- 1What is your opinion of the CEB Study Bible? I have many study bibles, but I tend to like the NISB, The Harper-Collins Study Bible and the CEB Study Bible. The CEB translation takes a bit getting used to.And what about the use of "the Human One" in place of the "Son of Man". I respect your opinion and would love to hear it.
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- 1Atonement / sacrificePete, You have said in your podcast and likely your books that Paul was interpreting the OT with the understanding that Jesus was the Christ and therefore applying OT writings as a prophecy of J... Read more...
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- 1Re: Kent Sparks interviewComing to the "party" a bit late and I don't see anything on the sites about this, pinky swear. In the interview with Kent Sparks, there is discussion about the absence of information about the Israel... Read more...
- 1How would you explain 1 Timothy 2:11-14?This passage began the unraveling of my conservative Christianity a year ago, and it's the reason my Calvary Chapel Bible study will never accept my leadership despite their obvious respecting of my i... Read more...
- 1Semi-Pelagian Christians?I am evangelical. I have lately been praying the catholic daily office. It has Constant references to their faith in Christ and the cross. Even though the church called semi-pelagianism beliefs as her... Read more...
- 1What is the best way I can prepare being a teacher of the Bible in a Christian college?I have a little over a year of schooling left before I graduate and earn my teaching license, and I am a little uncertain about how best to prepare for teaching students of my own about the Bible. Do ... Read more...
- 1Belief vs FaithGrowing up in church I was taught that to be a Christian I had to “believe in Jesus and accept him as my Lord and Savior”. As I’ve deconstructed it seems that there is a tension between belief and fai... Read more...
- 1Thoughts on Tithing, biblical and historical?What are your thoughts on tithing historically and in modern day church? Does God really 'need' our money?
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- 1Episode 133: The Book of Job Would you please comment on 42:6 and the translation of “…repent in dust and ashes”, vs “…comforted by dust and ashes”? Thank you for the podcast and keep up the excellent work!I had a much longer exposition to my question but (wisely) there is a character limit to the question field!
- 1Are we individually created by God with a specific purpose?I am reading my way through all of your books, listen to the podcast regularly and a Patreon member. You have helped me tremendously with my struggling faith!! On to my question...coming out of an eva... Read more...
- 1Should we allow Critical Theory to influence our reading of scripture?Critical theory is popping up everywhere in evangelical circles, often unbeknownst to those doing the popping. Can we use CT if it is grounded in a framework that understands scripture and Christianit... Read more...
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- 1What about God's justice?You've addressed hell which certainly bumps into my question. Thanks for your hard work. But, I wonder why, when it seems that God in so many places calls the faithful to be just, we have many stories... Read more...
- 1A Fallible word of GodDear Dr Enns, Thanks so much for your excellent books and talks which I've found really interesting and helpful. I was just wondering, do you have any specific resources on the particular ... Read more...
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- 1Can you comment on the identity of humankind, are we beloved children or God or sinners who can’t do anything right? Some sort of combination?Love your show I hope to join Patreon soon. Send my regards to Marmalade
- 1The Term for Jesus SayingsGood morning. I know that there is the red letter bible. However, how do bible scholars know what Jesus said in order to put them as red letters? There is a term that describes how scholars can tell w... Read more...
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- 1A simple question with a complex answer I’m sure.I’ve listened since season 1 to the podcast. Currently reading Misquoting Jesus by Bart Ehrman. It has me wondering. Is there an English version of the Bible that indicates sections that were likely a... Read more...
- 1Theology QuestionHello, I am a college student who enjoys learning about biblical and theological topics, and I have been "attracted" to the Reform tradition, but when I have heard calvinism described by John Piper a... Read more...
- 1Christianity and American politicsfollow-up to your discussion with Pete Wehner: I am a 62 year old US-born male who has been a devout Christian all my life, though not raised evangelical. I've read the entire Bible dozens of times. ... Read more...
- 1I’m interested in a recommended reading list regarding biblical heurmanutics and exegesis for normal people.For years I have read what was recommended to me in conservative evangelical churches. I’m interested in your recommendations. Of course I’ve read your books, Pete! The Sin of Certainty was and is ver... Read more...
- 1The real Mnt. Sinai possible archeological proof for the exodus In Saudi Arabia (A Muslim Country)My wife bought the actual DVD at a church in Southern California. Because she taught the Exodus. Very cool video and I want to know Pete and Jared’s thoughts as Saudi Arabia. The Historical sign... Read more...
- 1Is the Bible opposed to institutional religion?In the Pentateuch, the writer lays the groundwork for a new spirituality that stood in opposition to the religion the Israelites were accustomed to (Egyptian and/or Canaanite paganism). In the writing... Read more...
- 1Is the Bible the only God-breathed texts out there?I can say humans with the Holy Spirit, involved to a unknown degree, wrote the biblical literature. A divine-human partnership. What I can’t believe (right now) is the Bible is unique for its inspirat... Read more...
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- 1What is happening in Acts chapter 5?More retributive justice or are there literary motifs that the author of Acts is working with? Thanks, and appreciate everything you guys do!
- 1What can you trust in the Bible?Just started reading The Sin of Certainty and have heard/viewed much of the premise of the book. So, what can you trust in the Bible to be fairly certain?
- 1Could you please expand on your statement from The Bible Tells Me So regarding the Book of Revelation as “off the charts weird and definitely not meant to be taken literally “?As someone who grew up with the doom and gloom of this book hanging over my head as a literal truth I would really appreciate a different and possibly saner prospective. Thank you.
- 1Evolution and sinIf evolutionary theory is true, and God somehow initiated or was involved in the process, why would he rely on “sinful” mechanisms such as selfishness, greed, killing, death, etc (basically any self-s... Read more...
- 1How would you refine this advice to a first time Bible reader?The Bible is full of internal contradictions and external contradictions with the religions that were purportedly developed in conjunction with it. In order to make your way through its contents do yo... Read more...
- 1How did Moses confine the Midianite POWsWhat ancient sources from 1400 b.c. through 1000 b.c. either tell of, or depict the way POWs were shackled when caught and marched back to camp or confined after arriving? Pretty sure we don't have a... Read more...
- 1What do you think about an album titled: The Sin of Certainty? Will congregations, someday, sing hymns expressing their doubt and uncertainty? They might be healthy congregations.From Sadie Gustafson-Zook to Bruce Bradshaw, Pastor of Mennonite Congregation of Boston: I will be making an album this spring (and the title was actually inspired by one of your sermons- “Sin of... Read more...
- 1What are your thoughts on accountability?I have a friend that told me today, that she thinks I lack accountability. For a word that doesn't appear in the bible, it sure is a big deal in the organizations we call church and the people that f... Read more...
- 1What's with all these other messiahs?My question is two fold. First, there were all these other miracle workers before Jesus and at the same time as Jesus, specifically in the Galilee. Guys like Honi the circle maker and Hanina Ben Dosa ... Read more...
- 1For me, isn't the resolution to all of these chats, debates, arguments, etc., simply to live a life of humility? Almost every debate seems to have arrogance vs humility at it's foundation.Only one of those attributes seem to line up with Jesus, and the Bible for that matter. Seems to me that a life of humility is kind of the catchall answer, to all of the questions.
- 1How are “normal people” supposed to navigate the super complicated Bible, religion and faith in general, without doing it poorly?Like, it seems to me that bad theology and poor interpretations happen because they are being done by “normal people” who don’t have a PhD in biblical studies or multiple degrees in ancient Judaism, H... Read more...
- 1SuggestionsHi! Very very interesting and relevant podcast. A few topic suggestions: - The bible and mental illnesses(es), depression, bipolarity. - The bible and theology in China. - The judaic/rabbinic li... Read more...
- 1Bias and Biblical InterpretationHave you ever considered interviewing a scholar like Daniel Kahneman to discuss how behavioral shortcuts interfere with our interpretation of the Bible?
- 1HELP! Seminary is torture.Hi Pete and Jared, I just began Seminary, and I am shocked by the resistance to polite (and I mean very polite), critical questions about the topics we are discussing. In the U.S., are there any schoo... Read more...
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- 1What are the traits of God?Caribbean Mail : Could you do a show on this topic : Who is god according to the Bible ? To me it is VERY crucial that people get the character/traits of God clear in their mind from the Bible. Why ?... Read more...
- 1Do hou know of any christian school that uses your Telling Gods Story curiculum?I've been charged to reevaluate ours at the school I teach at.
- 1SupportI have a support question. I don't see that as an option on this website. I purchased the Beyond the Prince of Egypt class thinking that I could download and listen to the course later. But I am not s... Read more...
- 1Looking for a Fresh ApproachI truly appreciate the book "How the Bible Actually Works" I am on a quest to rekindle my desire to read and study the Bible. I have found my life-long evangelical training (including academic) wanti... Read more...
- 1Law and symbolismThe book of Exodus is one big creation myth with Yahweh fighting the Pharaoh over the people. At the the law is given. Should we consider the law as truly godly unlike the laws that other people recei... Read more...
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- 1What is God like?You spend much effort and time on this question [it is the most fundamental] but rarely do you ever address Does He have an active enemy, if so what is he like. We can talk about God's character all ... Read more...
- 1What is the best textbook to use when teaching an Introduction to the Old Testament class at a fairly conservative Christian University?I am scheduled to teach RELS 101 (Introduction to the Old Testament) at Trinity Western University (Langley, BC, Canada) starting in September. I would love your recommendations on what textbook you t... Read more...
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- 1What was the main purpose (or utility) of the Genesis book for the hebrews in the time it was written?I remember that in my Theology classes, the teacher refears to the Genesis book as a main proof of the power of God to the hebrew people exiliated in Egypt and Babylon, aiming to them to not lose the ... Read more...
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- 1Obviously you have gone through a transformation in your faith, what event caused you to reconsider a tenet of evangelical Christian theology?I used to follow blindly the thoughts of "once saved always saved" and of the "pre-trib rapture" but have found for myself that those are not congruent with my reading of scripture.
- 1How should a person handle their relationship with their spouse when they have different views of how the Bible should be used?For example, if I come to a different conclusion than my wife about the Bible and that conclusion makes my wife scared or even worried that I am turning away from the faith, how can I help my wife und... Read more...
- 1Is it Biblically sound theology to believe that the current pandemic is God's punishment?If you look at the current pandemic, it seems to me that a case could be made that it is a global punishment from God. The things it's affected most are things commonly considered as societies sins. ... Read more...
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- 1So the question, i guess, specifically, is Critical Theory, from which most social justice issues stem, incompatible with The Bible? And/or how are social justice issues Biblical?Hi! So i joined patreon so i could search the platform to see if you have discussed Critical Theory and the Bible. I don’t see any posts related to this though i think most of your work may kind of ad... Read more...
- 1I sent this through Patreon and was directed here. Thanks!Pete and Jared, My name is Karl and I am a pastor in Central Texas (though I was born in Philly). My family has been so encouraged by your work. I have undergone a large scale deconstruction/recon... Read more...
- 1Israel's Two Creation Stories Cont'd?I read your article on Biologos and want to learn more about your perspective on making sense of these contradictory account , as well as other two version stories in the Bible dealing with key events... Read more...
- 1Have you talked to the the abnormal people that read the BibleIt seems that you lost me at hello. The ONLY God ordained podcast. Sounds like the same thing brothers, its like the Charlie Browns teacher. Wawawawawa
- 1I’m reading Isaiah. Can you explain how Isaiah can write a dreadful line like 24:1 and then one chapter later write the beautifully inclusive 25: 6-9?I recognize that the whole Bible is paradoxical in this same way. We get both heaven and hell in doses that are unreconcilable. I’m comfortable with the idea that the Bible doesn’t give us answers,... Read more...
- 1Ecc. 10:2 and Matt. 25:33 to justify 21st century political views.I have heard conservative people -including people who are convinced they don't read the bible through their own perspectives -use Ecclesiastes 10:2 and Matthew 25:33 to "prove" voting Republican is G... Read more...
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- 1Do you like the band mewithoutYou and why are they your favorite band?for fun! and humor!
- 1RE: Peter Ruins ExodusLove the series, Peter. We know that names in The OT often describe the character of God (El Shaddai, Jehovah Jireh, etc). Hearing God call Himself "I Am" (what amounts to a modern Ontological concep... Read more...
- 1AMERICAN GOSPELI just watched the documentaries by Brandon Kimber. Would you consider reviewing the second one about “progressive Christianity” in your podcast?
- 1How should we receive such stories of people who have had near death experiences and claimed to have seen heaven/hell, especially among the Christian community?Requesting for you to acknowledge that such stories have largely had a “positive” evangelical impact on its audience, inspiring them to follow Jesus either to look forward to an eternally blissful hea... Read more...
- 1Do you agree with John Hick's 'religious pluralism' or is it plausible? If 'Yes' why? and If 'No' why not?Ph.D. Scholar Dept. of Anthropology North Eastern Hill University Shillong: India
- 1Baptism: what did it mean before the gospels?John the Baptist was baptizing people before Jesus' ministry, death, and resurrection. Was this a pre-existing ritual, or was John the first? And what was the significance behind it to Jews in that ti... Read more...
- 1Bible Version Opinion +This is not a "think big" question. I'm OK with the absence of a response. One the website Pete recommends 3 study bibles. For the moment I purchased the Harper Collins Study Bible Recently I pur... Read more...
- 1In moving from Evangelical formulaic thinking into B4NP-friendly questioning, are we committing the sin of certainty in favor of science if we’re moved very quickly to give up believing that Bible's miracles are factual descriptions of past events?It’s not that hard (for some) to see Jesus’s walking on water as an allegory, richly conveying the sense of peace that Jesus brings to his follows (both then and now) in their times of deep trouble an... Read more...
- 1Jeremiah 7 21-23 Differnt versionsHi Pete, I really enjoyed your podcast on Julius Wellhuasen. When I read Jeremiah 7:21-23 the verses follows Wellhuasen's argument. BUT when I read the NIV version they add the word 'just', so it rea... Read more...
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- 1Paul on cursingGalatians 1:8-9 and 1 Corinthians 16:22 he advocates cursing people. In Romans 12:14 he says "bless and do not curse". Inconsistant?
- 1The giftHello Pete, I was just doing some research on gifts from God because I personally know this elderly Christian woman that I go to from time for many years now and she uses the Bible to tell me what exa... Read more...
- 1How do you find a church?First love this podcast! Got a question but wanted to give some context. My wife and I are on a journey over that past few years and one of the crossroads we have come to is the modern system of chu... Read more...
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- 1What are some ways that Christians can use our first testament/ Hebrew Scriptures in a way that is respectful of our Jewish neighbors?I am aware that the Christian usage can be anti-Semitic and has a history of being problematic. Is it even possible to use it without being disrespectful at worst or anti-Semitic at best? What pitfall... Read more...
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- 1How do you deal with/ address/ interpret the issue of church "discipline" referenced in 1 Cor. 5?In the church tradition where I grew up, that was used for any type of discretion, including too many absences from the church service. Thanks.
- 1Methods of interpretationClearly the Old Testament is the principal source document for New Testament writers. The methods they use, such as quotation, allusion, allegory and ideas about ‘fulfilment’, can seem, at times, to ... Read more...
- 1What you think about the “Kingship of Jesus” as an appropriate or helpful reference to Christ in the 21. CenturyIn most democracies around the world, kings and queens have experienced a significant change in the role they play in society, which I think affects our understanding of Jesus as a very alternative Ki... Read more...
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- 1My Mom and Dad won't let me read "The Bible Tells Me So" right now. They say that they want to read it first and see if it's appropriate or whatever. What if they say no? What should I do?My Mom is reading it right now and then my Dad is going to read it after. I know that I want to read it no matter what. If they say that I can read it (they haven't responded yet), I'm sorry to bother... Read more...
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- 1Man AFTER Gods heartI was listening to did the Bible get it wrong, and I was listening to the part on David, and I kept waiting for you to make a point, you never made. He was the man AFTER Gods heart. The text doesn't s... Read more...
- 1What advice would you give pastors who are in the process of deconstruction? How do we navigate the tension between what our job is and what we're going through personally?I'd love to hear your thoughts on pastors struggling with deconstruction. What advice would you give them? Have any personal stories of being in that bind? What did it feel like when you took a step o... Read more...
- 1Why would Jesus more properly be called divinely human and not God?In one of the youtube videos on "The Bible for Normal People" channel I heard Pete mention that he believes it to be blasphemy to call Jesus God but rather he is divinely human. Could you please delve... Read more...
- 1Your identity in Jesus ChristPeter, what exactly is your identity in Jesus Christ? Are you righteous in him in a "legal" sense? Or is he more of example of morality for you? Do you think of him in terms of your existential id... Read more...
- 1Commenting and connecting with Pete and Jared1. Above you say "Comment on a blog post that affected you in some way." Clicking on the Comment hyperlink then choosing a particular "blog post" there does not seem to be a place to make a comment.... Read more...
- 1What does "foolish to those who are perishing mean"?I had a conversation with my father regarding Dr. King, who he finds every occasion to criticize because his work would have been much more effective if only he had preached the Gospel. I disagreed wi... Read more...
- 1Re prophesies being conditionalIf I say I'm going to pick you up Friday at 7 to take you to dinner that's a prophesy. If I say I'll pick you
- 1We have an adult class on Sunday mornings in our church (Hope Lutheran Church, Fresno CA. I have a question about using the podcasts in our class.I would like to use about 15 minutes of your podcast in our class. That means I want to listen, for example, to minutes 3:15 to 5:20, and then skip to 12:12 to 14:55, and then skip to 20:21 to 26:33,... Read more...
- 1What kind of sarcastic comments goes through Pete's head during a church service?My wife and I were invited to join a virtual worship service and decided to attend. What we experienced was the very definition was why we haven't gone to church in many years and all we did was end u... Read more...
- 1Can you please explain Hebrew 10:26?I'm having a hard time seeing how this verse doesn't mean that I need to constantly strive to be absolutely perfect or else I will be tormented by God.
- 1In light of the information of the ambiguity and objectivity of the biblical text, how do we know that the Christian God is the only way to look at God? Is it possible that other religions allow us to know God more as well?I know it’s a rather elementary question, but I also know that the answer I’ve always been given is that we know that Christianity is the “truth” because we just do - because of our faith. Certainly G... Read more...
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- 1Is there any access to some kind of index for the blog articles? Or in a separate pdf or other? I am namely looking for a list of the articles that would have some of the material in Pete's first 2-3 books. (as I once understood they might). I doI do have a kindle copy of "tells me so" but would like to pass references to a friend while waiting for ordered books. "Certainty" and "tells me" pls
- 1Spiritual QuestOur study group just finished reading Sin of Certainity.We have studied Merton,Campbell, Chesterton,Rohr.Who is next on our journey?
- 1Is it a cannibalistic action, when Catholics take communion? (Is Joe Biden a cannibalistic vampire?)Okay. I know this kind of isn’t a Bible question. I’m currently Methodist, and I really enjoy partaking in The Metaphor, but as a young Catholic child I asked my teachers this question and I don’t thi... Read more...
- 1Does God have a body?hi - Very sorry. I cannot find the Adam Kirsch review on the Tablet site. (Yes, I looked using Kirsch and Sommer.) Can I buy a vowel and ask for the specific URL? Please? Thank you!!!
- 1Was Lot’s wife wrong to turn back to Sodom?In light of modern interpretations of Sodom. And Jesus referring positively to salt, could there possibly be a new interpretation of Lot’s wife? Especially a queer interpretation.
- 1Deuteronomy 20/ Luke 14Do you see a connection between Deuteronomy 20:5-8 (what the officials say to the army before a war) and Jesus' story of the Great Banquet in Luke 14:18-20? In Deuteronomy, the same excuses are offer... Read more...
- 1Can Yahweh be friendly toward other gods?In Lev. 16.8, Yahweh commands the Israelites to sacrifice a literal scape-goat to "Azazel", who, according to the Jewish Study Bible, is believed to be a demon or deity of the wilderness. Are there ot... Read more...
- 1Not a question, but a thank you following listening to Episode 148.I have often wondered why the Adam story was ignored throughout the Hebrew Bible. Your rehearsing the notion that it is a recapitulation of Israel's story (given a good land, rebellion, exclusion (cap... Read more...
- 1Podcast 148 Peter says to see Genesis abs specifically Adam and Eve as representative of Israel and human kind and not as historical beings. Then in Podcast 147 you interview Benjamin Sommer and he specifically talks about seeing Adam and Eve as hisHistorical beings and looking at scripture literary. I’m confused. Thank you for making me seek treasure in God’s Kingdom.
- 1Tim MackeyHey guys you should try to have Tim Mackey on your podcast. Very intellectual and expert on Jewish approach to Bible and kind of in the evangelical camp but more forward thinking and creative. Would l... Read more...
- 1Are the gospels the "reed basket" or "arc" that were written to carry the Torah?Hi Pete. I'm an avid listener of your podcast and an armchair theologian (I guess). I'm reading through the Jewish Annotated New Testament and I have a theory that keeps inspiring me. I'd like to shar... Read more...
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- 1Can you provide your thoughts on this sermon that is being used to further push why Christians should vote republican? I'm struggling with this in my marriage and would love to hear another biblical perspective on this issue. Thank you!Here is the link to the sermon: https://youtu.be/6wInJkBEHQw
- 1Did Jesus lead the Israelities out of Egypt?I wanted to bring up a question/area of discussion that might be worth exploring sometime in the future. Last year I purchased The Gospel In Every Book of the Old Testament by Joseph Farah. I have hea... Read more...
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- 1b4np guest suggestion: heather macumber (monster theory + the bible)pete + jared, i've got a guest suggestion for you that i think would be worthwhile, with a topic that i don't think "the bible for normal people" has investigated yet...a canadian biblical scholar na... Read more...
- 1Book proposal for you to contribute to.Hi Peter, I hope this email finds you well. Robert Bolger here. I am publishing a book looking at a variety of religious responses to Ernest Becker’s work (especially The Denial of Death) and wan... Read more...
- 1Which twenty years are you referring to at the beginning of the first chapter of The Evolution of Adam? (1880-1900 or earlier??)Dear Peter Inns, Sorry to bother you with this question, to which the answer may be very obvious to you and most of your readers, but I can't work out which 20 years you mean in the 19th century in wh... Read more...
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- 1Why do you believe in God? What is your faith rooted in?You guys do an awesome job breaking down some long held beliefs about the Bible and the Christian faith. So much so that it sometimes makes me think that maybe non of the Christian faith is true. Howe... Read more...
- 1Rethinking God with TacosMy name is Jason Clark. I am a writer, a film guy, and co-host of Rethinking God with Tacos PODCAST. http://afamilystory.org/rethinking-god/ I have been greatly impacted and encouraged by Pete's wr... Read more...
- 1Is it possible to advertise with you/sponsor and episode of a podcast?I work for Respero, a non-profit that offers free faith based counseling to anyone and trains people to become lay counselors. Look forward to hearing from you.
- 1Song of SolomonHello Pete and Jared. I am asking you to do a podcast on the "Song of Solomon". I don't think I can listen to one more sex-positive podcast encouraging women to enjoy his "fruit or gems". Consideri... Read more...
- 1comment ok? Can't help myself. The Bible Tells Me So, p." Both (Proverbs and Ecclesiastes) are portraits of God and the life of faith..." FYI I wrote in the margin "No they're not! Unless God is a creep. Rather they (at least Ecclesiastes) areportraits of the fine mess we've made and (Proverbs) what we've come to find is true in pursuing God to help us dig our way out and (Ecclesiastes) how we sometimes feel about it. Brevity and humor ha... Read more...
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- 1What is your perspective on the character of Lilith?I’ve recently been watching the Netflix T.V. show “Lucifer” and they mention a character named Lilith, the first wife of Adam in the Bible. Now, I understand a show has creative license to write whate... Read more...
- 1Given that in Biblical times the entire universe consisted of earth, sky, sun and points of light at night, is it reasonable to think of God in the same way that the writers of the Bible did?Does the fact that we recognize the universe contains quintillions of stars with even more planets, change our understanding of the nature of God?
- 1If the Bible is not literal and is more a book of wisdom how can we back up a real God was involved at all in the making of the Bible?I am new to deconstruction of my fundamentalist Christian background and now find myself having a difficult time believing the Bible at all. It seems every story and message is tainted with humanity t... Read more...
- 1publication dates?I am a seminary student, wanting to cite info from this site in a project. Are there publication dates on the blog posts/articles? (I apologize if I'm just not seeing them.) Thanks!
- 1Where To StartHello I am reading the Sin of Certainty now. I have already read How The Bible Actually Works. Is it best to begin at #1 on the podcast? I see iy's on 161 now. Jim
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- 1Uniqueness of the resurrectionHello Pete, I really enjoy the blog and the podcasts. In your last post you wrote this: "The miraculous births of Jesus and others in Scripture mirror known ways of speaking of important ancient fig... Read more...
- 1Why would god create a universePlease dont say "to share the love" - a god by definitions needs nothing. Is there any laudable motive or is this a god works in mysterious ways thing
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- 1Is God a paradox?I recently lost a child. I also work in a ministry that serves asylum seekers (quite literally, the least of these). These have led me to question basically everything I know about God. What does it R... Read more...
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- 1Can I become unrelated to Tim Mahoney?Hi Pete, I'm embarassed to admit I'm related to the author of "Patterns of Exodus" ... the purpose of my sarcastic question is just to say thanks for what you do. You've really supported and encourag... Read more...
- 1What is eternity?In my journey to understand the bible better one of the things that I noticed, but never hear talked about, is that a lot of the Bible, specifically the Hebrew Scriptures, seem to be written before th... Read more...
- 1What is your take on spiritual warfare?How do I reconcile the traditions of evil, the devil and spiritual warfare that I grew up with in my mainstream denomination, with the new perspective of looking at the Bible that I’ve found through T... Read more...
- 1subscriptionI have been charged 2 dollars plus 5 dollars by patreon. for last two months . I am supposed to be charged only 5 dollars every moth. Please check the matter
- 1How to joinI could only find a log-in to my account info. But how can I join or subscribe to this podcast forum?
- 1When are you going to have Jason Staples as a guest?Would love to see Jason Staples on your podcast! He's a committed Christian who studied under Bart Ehrman and is releasing an influential book titled "The Idea of Israel in Second Temple Judaism" by C... Read more...
- 1Have you interviewed Bart Ehrman?I would love to hear a discussion among Pete, Jared, and Bart. I have enjoyed reading and listening to Dr. Ehrman's historical knowledge of early Christianity. No specific question. Just a plea to boo... Read more...
- 11 Samual speaking of Israel and Judah before the kingdom has splitAs I'm reading through 1st and 2nd Samual, I have noticed references to the kingdom of Judah but at this point in the story Israel has not yet split. Am I missing something? is this a clue to when the... Read more...
- 1How do you sign in for the courses you bought?When I click on a course I already paid for all I get is an advertisement for the course. How do I sign in? andrewinge@yahoo.com
- 1Doerfler Jephthah discussionFirst, I appreciate your podcasts and perspectives. Thank you! I was a bit surprised, though, that the Doerfler discussion about Jephthah did not engage with an entirely alternate, but somewhat well... Read more...
- 1TrinityIt seems to me that the doctrine of the Trinity is by no means clearly present in the New Testament. As far as I aware the Greek term for God in the full sense is "ho theos" (God with the definite art... Read more...
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- 1Book on biblical canonI'm a college senior who attends a (very) conservative Christian university and am wanting to explore the origins of the biblical canon. I want to read a book on the matter that isn't written by eithe... Read more...
- 1Jepthah #1Fwiw, here are the arguments in favor of this reading (yes, there may be pushbacks to this reading, too): 1 An argument can be made that it is better to translate Judges 11:31 as “it shall be that wh... Read more...
- 1Jepthah #25 J’s daughter bewails her virginity, not her impending death. The force of the Hebrew may indicate that the daughter “knew no man” following the vow’s fulfillment, that is, the daughter laments, not ... Read more...
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- 1Pete you wrote a book "Telling Gods' story a parents guide...would you say your approach has changed significantly since writing this book ?we are in the middle of deconstructing and trying to figure out what to say to our girls 6 &8 who both have great questions like, my friend says he believes buddha, how so we know "our" God is the... Read more...
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- 1Are the courses a per person cost?On your How The Bible Actually Works course, you've got a suggested and pay what you can. I was wondering if that's for the course so that I can do it with a small group or if it's something each per... Read more...
- 1Why do the editors of the Hebrew Bible seem uninterested in compiling a coherent text?I know alot of work has been done to postulate likely purposes for the disparate stories, versions of similar stories and various texts that exist in the Bible. What work has been done to determine th... Read more...
- 1What does Jesus mean when he says they neither marry nor are given in marriage in the resurrection?This verse has been bothering me ever since I came across it and I don’t understand why or if God would really separate a married couple in the resurrection. Can you please offer any advice on this to... Read more...
- 1Que es fornicación en la biblia?Quisiera saber si todo lo que las iglesias pregonan hoy en día acerca de la virginidad, es cierto?
- 1I wanna know the meaning of the word fornicationIs it true the things all churches talk about sex before marriage, Im not saying that you should be promiscuos but you cant even with your fiancee??
- 1Didn't you interview Stephen Verney re: his book Water Into Wine? I thought so - so why can't I find any mention of it (to him) on your website?Huh? Why not? (Sorry - I hate it when stuff doesn't work.) (stuff like search engines...)
- 0I have read two of your books and many articles. I have also listened to many podcasts - so I have done my homework! You imply that just because Paul believed in an actuak Adam does not mean Adam existed. Jesus mentions Jonah living in the big fish.Do you think that Jesus believed the story was historically correct or was Jesus using the "story" to make a point? Some suggest that if Jesus did not believe the story to be fact, that his integrity... Read more...
- 0What's the purpose of life and what is after it?What is the purpose of life? If what people normally believe about the Bible isn't actually true, what really happens after we die, to us? And, if Jesus didn't return after going up into Heaven, will... Read more...
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